You are on duty as an armed guard after hours and see a suspicious individual with a shiny object approaching. What is the first action you should take?

In a situation where you encounter a suspicious individual approaching you with a shiny object, the most prudent first action is to take cover. This initial step prioritizes your safety and allows you to assess the situation without exposing yourself to potential danger.

Taking cover enables you to create a barrier between yourself and the potential threat, providing some level of protection while you observe the individual's behavior. It also allows you to have a clearer view of the situation without directly confronting the individual or alerting them to your presence, which could escalate the situation.

In such circumstances, assessing the threat is crucial, and seeking cover gives you the opportunity to evaluate the scene from a secure position. After ensuring your safety, you can consider the next steps, such as calling for backup or attempting to identify the individual and the object they are carrying. Prioritizing personal safety in potentially dangerous situations is essential for anyone working in security or law enforcement roles.